Thinking about buying an electric scooter? If you're sick of fussing around looking for a park or simply want a lower cost method of getting around, an electric scooter is a great solution. There's a wide range of options to choose from, and to make finding the best one easy for you, we've selected a bunch of different models to review and compare - weighing up things like speed, handling, power, and value! Stay with us as we share some of our top picks, along with a quick Q&A at the end that answers some common questions we've been asked. It's been a lot of fun testing everything out and it's all so we can answer the big question! What is the Best Electric Scooter?
Quick list! Top 5 Electric Scooters available now in NZ
1. Segway Ninebot GT2
Coming in first just based on all out power and performance, we have the beastly Segway Ninebot GT2. If you feel the need for speed, love to go off-roading, and have the budget to match, this is the ride for you! The GT2 offers exceptional speed with outstanding battery, capable of a MAX speed of 70KM/H and a MAX distance of 90km! Plus, it will tackle inclines with ease thanks to a 30% climbing range.
For this level of speed and distance, a strong, durable build and advanced technology is a must and the GT2 has plenty of that! The GT2 two-hub motor generates a 3000W maximum motor power in each, reaching 88Nm peak torque. This power lets you go from 0-48km/h in just 3.9 seconds! The high-performance battery also has a Heat Flux Multi-Layer Cooling System to ensure heat stays balanced, even in the most extreme driving conditions. Speed, power, battery life, range, and more are displayed right in front of you on a world's first transparent PM OLED display.
You can ride in confidence knowing the GT2 was designed with performance and safety in mind. It features the unique Segway Dynamic Traction Control System (SDTC) which ensures you remain in control on a gravel or a slipper road, providing better handling at high speeds. A front double wishbone suspension ensures the suspension is stable and handles well, while a rear trailing arm suspension provides agility and comfort as you drive. Front and rear hydraulic shocks and a hydraulic disc brake also ensure smooth riding and powerful breaking strength. Self-sealing tires also provide ultimate road-gripping capacity and have a low risk of punctures.
Ambient light mode options, left and right indicators, and double safety quick-folding are just some of the other features that you'll find in this scooter. If all out power, speed and distance is your top priority, the Segway GT2 Super Scooter is your best bet! Don't forget to include the price of safety gear in your budget too.
2. Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Ultra
Perhaps you don't need the level of speed the GT2 offers, but it still matters to some degree. For you, we recommend the Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Ultra - it offers speed, distance and performance that's perfect for the average rider! The 4 Ultra lets you travel the distance, boasting an 70KM max range and a travelling speed of 25KMPH. It can also tackle inclines you might encounter on your ride with a 25% climbing range thanks to the powerful brushless motor.
The 4 Ultra also has some great features to enhance the way you ride. It has a built-in front LED light to illuminate the path in front of you as you ride, as well as rear lights so you can be seen in low light conditions. A dual suspension system ensures a smooth, comfortable ride; while DuraGel Tires offer peace of mind that your tires have an added layer of durability and safety.
The 4 Ultra is made of high-strength aluminium alloy and optimised production and weilding processes ensure excellent frame durability. Plus, IP55 dust and water-resistance makes it suitable for various riding scenarios. When you're not riding, the scooter can be folded down with ease, ideal for taking on public transport, storing at work or university, or at home or in your car. As with all Xiaomi scooters, you can view ride data on the Xiaomi Home/Mi Home app.
3. Segway Ninebot MAX G2
This next option is fairly similar to the previous, but offers a bit more speed for those who like to feel the wind in their hair. If this is you, check out the Segway Ninebot MAX G2 - a premium e-scooter model from Segway, and the successor to the popuar G30 Max. The G2 MAX is another next top choice for distance - capable of travelling an AMAZING 70km on one charge.
The MAX G2 has a top speed of 25km/h but can be overclocked to up to 35km/h and has 22% climbing range. Rear wheel drive and simultaneous dual braking system, both the front-wheel mechanical drum brake and the back-wheel electric brake, provides stability and steerability. The Regenerative Braking gives you extra energy which will be collected in the battery and distributed when you need a boost.
Additionally, it includes front and rear suspension, higher and wider handlebars for more stability, left and right indicators, an electric horn, a wider footboard, RideyLong technology, integration with Apple’s Find My Network, and automobile-class Traction Control Systems (TCS). TCS improves the rider's control, providing stability on slippery surfaces and preventing sudden loss of control. This groundbreaking feature sets it apart from other KickScooters and offers users a safer, more precise, and enjoyable riding experience.
The Ninebot MAX G2 is a serious eScooter with a serious price tag to match, but it does offer impressive speed, climb, range and fast charging for the price. The size and weight make it suitable for adults up to 120kg. If you're looking for one of the best, order your Segway Ninebot MAX G2 today!
4. Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 PRO
You can consider this one our 'Best for Most People' pick, as it offers the best balance of value, distance, speed and power. The Xiaomi Electric Scooter 4 Pro will provide enough of everything without being overkill. It's the perfect choice for city dwellers who need a reliable electric ride to get around, or students/working professionals who need a private mode of transport that's good for the environment and easy on the wallet compared to other motor vehicles.
The Electric Scooter 4 Pro travels a maximum distance of 55km on a single charge, at max speeds up to 25km/h. It's ready to take on any 20% inclines you might encounter on your ride. A hand throttle with moderate resistance and timely feedback makes driving speed easier and safer to control, and acceleration smoother. Additionally, you can switch between speed modes to ride at set speed ranges with the push of a button (the same button can also be used to turn the headlights on and off).
Other features that'll give you peace of mind include a big and bright tail light that automatically turns on when the headlight is turned on. It'll also automatically blink when the brake is pressed, alerting pedestrians and vehicles behind you that you're slowing down. The 10" DuraGel self-sealing tires not only eliminate the need to worry about tire punctures, but they also offer great shock absorbing performance, for a ride that's smoother and more comfortable.
5. Segway Ninebot F30 Kick Scooter
The Segway Ninebot F30 Kick Scooter is going strong with a great price and great feature set. It is a great entry-level scooter that's ideal for students, commuters who have short distances to cover, or casual recreational riders. It has a feature set that you can rely on, including anti-puncture tyres, water-breaking non-slip tread, a resilient carbon steel frame, an LED frontlight, and an anti-lock brake system + ventilated disc brake for more stable braking. This is coupled with a high-quality lithium battery that when fully charged has a 30km range, which is easily sufficient for all short-distance travel needs. You can reach top speeds of up to 25km/H on this scooter.
Between the handle bars, you'll find an integrated display that shows all your essential riding information at a glance. There's been a big focus on making this information as clear as possible, including prominent gear settings, bold speed information, clear and colour-coded information, and a clear battery bar. This scooter has a foldable design and light weight meaning this scooter can easily be taken with you for security purposes or to be stored away. With all of the essential features and available at a low price, the Segway Ninebot F30 Kick Scooter is our top choice for those after value.
Ahh, that was fun! With so many awesome Electric Scooters and great weather ahead to enjoy riding them in, it's going to be a great summer for sure! We hope this information helps you on your quest to find the best one for you (or that lucky someone).
Quick links below for all the in-stock models that featured in our Best Electric Scooter list, and be sure to ask our friendly staff about anything we might have missed - great questions for you are what makes lists like this one possible.
Check out all the latest Electric Scooters available now, there are great options to suit everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions
There have been thousands of electric scooters purchased by New Zealanders already, and with many more people stopping into their local PB Tech store for product demonstrations too, during all these hands-on experiences we get a bunch of common questions that pop up, so below are the most popular answers to these!
How long do Electric Scooters take to charge?
It depends on model and the wattage of the adapter you use. Here are some approximate charging times for specific eScooter models to give you an idea.
- Mi 4 Ultra = 6.5 hours
- Segway Ninebot GT2 = 8 hours
- Segway Ninebot ES2 = 3.5 hours
- Segway Ninebote F30 = 6.5 hours
What happens if I run out of battery while out and about?
Worry not - once the battery is depleted they will still work as a regular push scooter.
What does an electric scooter cost to run?
Compared to renting a LIME scooter, the costs of operating your own are greatly reduced in the long run. If a rider is charged $1 to hire the scooter and a further 30 cents a minute, the total comes to around $18 an hour. Let's say you buy a Ninebot ES2 model for $800 - you'd want to ride for 38 hours to reach the value vs. rental, but there is also the cost of charging to consider, so let's get super specific!
- Ninebot ES2 charging time is around 3.5 hours from from a 187Wh power adapter, so 3.5 x 187 = 654.5Wh = 0.655KWH
- Ninebot F30 charging time is around 6.5 hours from a 367Wh power adapter, so 6.5 x 367 = 2385.5W = 2.386KWH
Converting to a common NZ Kwh price, we come out with this.
- Ninebot ES2 = 0.30 * 0.655 = $0.20 (per charge)
- Ninebot F30 = 0.30 * 2.386= $0.71 (per charge)
Further math battles ensue for a per KM / total range breakdown.
- Ninebot ES2 (25KM) = $0.20 / 25 = $0.008 per KM
- Ninebot F30 (30Km) $0.71 / 30 = $0.024 per KM
Ah, that was fun, charging my own Electric Scooter cost less than I first thought!
Can I use my electric scooter in the rain?
It depends on how heavy the rain is and the water resistant rating on your specific scooter model. For example, an IP54 rating means the product can take a splash from any angle (great for cleaning), but it's not ready to be submerged - so watch out for big puddles and heavy rain!
What is the fastest electric scooter?
The Segway Ninebot GT2 Super Scooter has a max speed of 70km/h making it the fastest electric scooter.
What electric scooter can travel the farthest?
The Segway Ninebot GT2 Super Scooter can cover the most distance with a max range of 90km.
Do you need a drivers license for an electric scooter?
Right now, you can legally operate one without a licence on NZ roads and footpaths provided the electric scooter doesn't go over the 300 watt power limit (at 300W, the top speed a scooter is capable of reaching is 35km/h) and the wheels don't exceed 355mm.
Do you need to wear a helmet?
Legally, you are not required to wear one but it's a pretty good idea. Here at PB Tech, we stock a range of popular accessories including helmets and protective gear that's designed for use with electric scooters.
2 comments
JasonB64
I don't understand how a 3000w 70km/h scooter like the Segway Ninebot GT2 falls in the "no license required" category which is for vehicles 300w and under. You say "all our models meet the NZ specifications for no licence required". How can this be? What am I misunderstanding?
Read moreKim J (Head Office)
Hi Jason, you're correct about that. This scooter was added to the list recently and the FAQs hadn't been updated to reflect this so thanks for pointing that out! The Ninebot GT2 should be reserved for off-road and private land use.
Read more